The IUCN Global Ecosystem Typology (GET), developed by IUCN and CEM, was formally recommended for adoption into the international Family of Statistical Classifications in a significant decision by the United Nations Committee of Experts on International Statistical Classifications' during its meeting held in New York from October 24-27.
As the central coordination body responsible for international statistical classifications under the purview of the UN Statistics Division, the UNCEISC convenes meetings to discuss and make decisions regarding the adoption and revision of international statistical classifications. During the meeting, Andrew Hancock, Committee Chair of UNCEISC, highlighted the numerous strengths of the GET, including its solid scientific foundation, comprehensive scope, wide range of current applications (including the statistical framework SEEA Ecosystem Accounting), clearly defined statistical units, hierarchical classification, conceptual mutual exclusiveness, relationships and crosswalks to related frameworks, clear custodianship, and robust maintenance and implementation plan.
With unanimous agreement, the Committee officially recommended the GET for adoption as an international statistical classification. The recommendation will now go forward early next year to the United Nations Statistical Commission to decide on formal adoption. This decision marks another significant milestone in firmly establishing the GET as the primary global typology for ecosystems. |